Just finished an intense workout at Planet Fitness, and your stomach is growling like a hungry bear? We’ve all been there! That post-workout hunger is a real thing, and figuring out where to grab a bite can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to make the right choices. Planet Fitness has become a cornerstone of accessible fitness, with locations dotting the landscape and making workouts convenient for millions. But what about the fueling part? Finding the perfect spot to replenish your energy and satisfy your cravings after hitting the gym is just as important as the workout itself.
This article serves as your ultimate guide to navigating the culinary landscape surrounding Planet Fitness locations. We’ll explore a range of food options, from those lean and green choices that support your fitness goals, to the occasional indulgent treat that satisfies your cravings. Consider this your roadmap to making informed and delicious decisions after you crush that treadmill or lift those weights.
The Importance of Post-Workout Nutrition
Before we dive into the delicious details, let’s briefly talk about why what you eat after a workout matters. Think of your body like a car – it needs fuel to run, and after a hard drive, it needs to be refueled and potentially repaired. Similarly, exercise depletes your body’s energy stores (glycogen) and can cause microscopic damage to your muscles.
Eating after a workout helps to:
- Replenish glycogen stores: Your body needs to restock its energy supply, especially after a high-intensity session.
- Promote muscle recovery and repair: Protein is essential for rebuilding muscle tissue.
- Reduce muscle soreness: Proper nutrition can help minimize that dreaded post-workout ache.
Keep in mind that nutritional needs vary depending on workout intensity and your personal fitness goals. Someone aiming to lose weight might focus on a lighter, protein-rich snack, while someone building muscle might need a more substantial meal with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. The key is to listen to your body and fuel it accordingly.
Healthy Options Near Planet Fitness
You’ve just put in the work to improve your health, so why undo it with a poor food choice? Choosing healthy options after your workout can maximize your results and keep you feeling great. Luckily, there are usually some fantastic spots nearby that cater to the health-conscious.
Let’s explore some healthy food categories and some typical examples that you may encounter.
Salads with Lean Protein
A classic for a reason! Salads are packed with nutrients and can be a satisfying meal, especially when topped with lean protein. Look for places that offer grilled chicken, fish, or tofu as protein options. Avoid creamy dressings, and instead, opt for vinaigrette or ask for it on the side so you can control the amount.
You might find a place like “Healthy Greens” or “The Salad Bar” a few blocks from your Planet Fitness. A great option could be a grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette. It provides protein, fiber, and plenty of vitamins.
Pro Tip: Add a handful of nuts or seeds for healthy fats and extra satiety.
Smoothie and Juice Bars
Smoothies can be a quick and easy way to get a dose of fruits, vegetables, and protein after a workout. However, be mindful of added sugars. Some smoothie shops load up on sugary syrups and juices, which can sabotage your efforts. Choose smoothies with whole fruits, vegetables, protein powder (whey, soy, or plant-based), and healthy fats like avocado or nut butter.
Places like “Smoothie Paradise” or “Juice Junction” might be your go-to. A good choice would be a green smoothie with spinach, kale, banana, almond milk, and a scoop of protein powder. It’s packed with nutrients and protein to help you recover.
Pro Tip: Ask for no added sugar or sweeteners, and opt for unsweetened almond milk or water as the base.
Healthy Sandwich Options
Sandwiches can be a convenient and nutritious meal if you make the right choices. Opt for whole-grain bread, lean meats like turkey or chicken breast, and plenty of vegetables. Avoid processed meats, creamy sauces, and excessive cheese.
Look for a deli or sandwich shop that offers whole-grain bread and fresh ingredients. A great option would be a turkey and avocado sandwich on whole-wheat bread with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mustard.
Pro Tip: Load up on the veggies! The more vegetables you add, the more nutrients and fiber you’ll get.
Restaurants with Healthy Bowls
Bowl restaurants are super trendy these days, and for good reason. You can make a custom bowl, full of grains, vegetables, protein, and tasty sauces.
Near your Planet Fitness, you could be lucky enough to find a “Cava” or a “Chipotle” which are known for their bowls. A great choice would be a bowl with brown rice, grilled chicken, black beans, corn salsa, and guacamole. It’s a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Pro Tip: Limit the heavy sauces and dressings to keep the calorie count in check.
Yogurt or Frozen Yogurt Shops
Yogurt or frozen yogurt are both good options, just make sure to grab a low-fat variety. Add granola and your favorite fruits for a nutritious treat.
You might find a yogurt or frozen yogurt shop within walking distance from your Planet Fitness. A great option is a non-fat yogurt with blueberries, strawberries, granola and a drizzle of honey. This provides protein, antioxidants, and a touch of sweetness.
Pro Tip: Watch out for high-sugar toppings like candy and sugary syrups. Stick to fresh fruit and nuts for a healthier option.
Not-So-Healthy (But Still Delicious) Options Near Planet Fitness
Let’s be honest – sometimes, after a grueling workout, you just want something comforting and indulgent. That’s perfectly fine! The key is to enjoy these treats in moderation and not let them derail your overall fitness progress. The important thing to remember is that one less-than-healthy meal won’t ruin your progress, as long as you are committed to living a healthy lifestyle!
Pizza
Who can resist a slice of pizza? It’s a classic comfort food, but it can also be high in calories, fat, and sodium. If you’re craving pizza, try to choose a thinner crust, load up on the veggies, and limit the cheese.
Look for a local pizza place that offers thin-crust options and fresh toppings. A good compromise would be a thin-crust pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
Pro Tip: Blot off excess oil with a napkin to reduce the fat content.
Burgers and Fries
The classic American combo! Burgers and fries can be a tempting treat, but they’re also high in calories, fat, and sodium. If you’re going to indulge, opt for a smaller burger, skip the cheese and bacon, and choose a side salad instead of fries.
Nearly every Planet Fitness is near a place to get burgers and fries. Consider ordering a smaller sized burger and fries. It’s a good way to curb that craving without adding a lot of calories to your diet.
Pro Tip: Share an order of fries with a friend to cut down on your portion size.
Fast Food Chains
Fast food can be a convenient option when you’re short on time, but it’s important to make smart choices. Look for healthier options like grilled chicken sandwiches, salads with light dressing, or fruit parfaits.
Most Planet Fitness locations have a variety of fast food chains nearby. Consider ordering a grilled chicken wrap or a salad. It’s a good option that is fast and will fill you up.
Pro Tip: Check the nutritional information online before you order to make an informed decision.
Ice Cream and Dessert Shops
After a workout, your sweet tooth might be calling! Ice cream and desserts can be a delicious treat, but they’re also high in sugar and calories. If you’re going to indulge, opt for a smaller portion, choose lower-fat options, and load up on fruit toppings.
Planet Fitness locations are often near ice cream and dessert shops. Consider ordering a kiddie sized ice cream with fruit toppings. It’s a small treat that can satisfy your craving without derailing your diet.
Pro Tip: Choose sorbet or frozen yogurt instead of ice cream for a lower-fat option.
How to Find Food Near Any Planet Fitness
Now that you have some ideas, how do you actually find these food options near your local Planet Fitness? Thankfully, technology makes it easier than ever.
- Google Maps: Simply type “restaurants near Planet Fitness” into Google Maps, and you’ll get a list of nearby eateries. You can filter by cuisine, price, and rating to find the perfect spot.
- Yelp: Yelp is a great resource for reading reviews and getting a sense of the atmosphere and quality of different restaurants. You can also filter by cuisine, price, and dietary restrictions.
- Delivery Apps: Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub can be a lifesaver when you’re too tired to go out. You can browse menus, place your order, and have it delivered right to your door.
Remember to read menus online beforehand to get an idea of the options and prices. Check for nutritional information if available, and consider ordering online for convenience.
Conclusion
Finding the right food to fuel your body after a Planet Fitness workout is crucial for optimizing your results and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. From healthy salads and smoothies to the occasional pizza or burger, there are plenty of options to choose from near most Planet Fitness locations. Balancing these choices is key.
No matter what you choose to eat after your workout, remember that consistency and balance are key to achieving your fitness goals. Embrace the process, enjoy your meals, and celebrate your progress. Fuel up right!
What are your favorite post-workout meals? Share your go-to options in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you.
